Claudia Araujo

Weaver

Innovation in weaving materials

Claudia took up weaving on a loom handmade by her cousin
She uses repurposed materials such as PET yarn to create innovative pieces
Textures, colours and materials fuel her creativity

Claudia Araujo intertwines local materials and global design inspirations, drawing from her German heritage, British education, and extensive travels. She deeply respects Minas Gerais' textile legacy, collaborating with local artisans to promote sustainability through recycled materials. She also uses indigenous resources such as piaçava palm fibres. Claudia's work is inspired by textile traditions from many regions across the world, from Asia, Africa and South America. In 2011, Claudia was awarded the IF Award for her Broinha rug, which showcases resourcefulness and originality in repurposing materials. Notably, her partnerships with renowned international design studios like Patricia Urquiola in Milan and Yabu Pushelberg in Canada highlight her innovative approach.

Interview

What is your design process?: Researching, sampling and prototyping. Ideas brew, and then I test viability and materials. I experiment with textures and colours until the right combination is found. I archive some designs and present others to clients. Weaving + colour + texture bring surprises. I let myself be guided as options arise.
What sparked your interest in weaving?: In the 1970s, my cousin moved to a 'hippie community' and started a hand-weaving loom business. He gave me a loom that he made—a rigid-heddle wooden table loom. I was hooked and dived into a tapestry course for a year and a half.
Why do you use leftover material?: In 1996, I turned to leftover materials for their quality, abundance and affordability. Addressing complaints about natural fibres, I created the Cabeludo rug from polyamide strips, repurposing textile waste. Durable and versatile, it is perfect for bathrooms and living spaces. In 1999, I introduced PET yarn to hand-woven rugs, which resembles cotton and is ideal for outdoor use.
What do you enjoy most about your work?: Collaborating in product development, especially with experts, such as Patricia Urquiola. Our work together resulted in sophisticated designs after brainstorming and distilling ideas.

Claudia Araujo is a master artisan: she began her career in 1981 and she started teaching in 1993